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    Very stiff cranks on new build

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    1. CPC_CPC on

      Just installed some Ultegra cranks on a Colnago V3RS. I used a Shimano BB86 pressfit in the V3RS plastic cups.

      The cranks were difficult to get in and very stiff. I know Shimano is not supposed to amazingly smooth but the driveside crank will literally hold in the 3 o’clock position even when the non-drive side has not been installed.

      Wondering what I have done wrong. Fairly certain that the set up is all compatible. Is it possible that the internal cabling is putting some pressure on the BB and knocking it out of alignment?

      Edit: I had no issues getting the BB86 in. Clearly not preload due to no non-drive side crank.

    3. bmgvfl on

      I’d rather have a bb that is somewhat tight than a loose one, but that seems a bit excessive. In most cases it will get better after riding for a week.
      Is there a real sticking point, or is it the same resistance throughout a revolution ?

    4. kavid1 on

      So the bearings feel smooth when turning it with the finger? Without the crank. Try installing the other crank arm, to put some preload on the bearings.
      Does the axle line up when pushing through?
      BB is seated correctly on both sides? Show some detailed picture.

    6. FastSloth6 on

      There’s either a BB bearing issue, an alignment issue or a BB fitment/ bore issue. If the BB is genuine and the bearings are a standard size, that can mostly rule out tolerance issues on the bearing side. Next order of the day would be to remove and reinstall the BB. Bonus points if the two cups thread together or it’s a one piece BB. If that doesn’t work, I’d be working with Colnago for an outcome that rectifies the situation. Namely, either frame warranty or they foot the bill for you to get this fixed from an approved shop.

      There shouldn’t be significant pressure on the BB dust sleeve or body from the cables.

    7. s3si1u on

      Had something similar the first time I installed a Shimano bb86, I had a very hard time even getting the cranks in. I took it to the shop to see what was up and it turns out I just did a shit job of installing the BB. Idk…it looked fine to me, lol. Had the shop install a new Shimano BB and all was fixed.

      This may or may not be the case for you, but worth double checking your install?

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